Beginner’s Guide: How to Start Algo Trading in India with Share India

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Algo trading has been creating quite a buzz in the financial markets for a while now. With SEBI’s recent circular aimed at regulating the space, the conversation around algorithmic trading has only grown louder. For many retail traders, however, the concept still feels complex and out of reach—something reserved for experts or large institutions.

But that’s no longer the case.

Thanks to user-friendly platforms and simplified tools offered by algo trading platforms, algo trading is now accessible to beginners as well. In this Share India trading guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of how to get started with algo trading in India, without feeling overwhelmed. Whether you’re curious about how it works or ready to dive in with Share India’s platform, this is your starting point. 

Understanding Algo Trading

Automated stock trading in India has transformed how trades are executed in today’s fast-paced markets. Instead of relying on manual decisions, traders now use computer algorithms that follow a set of pre-defined rules, based on time, price, volume, or even advanced statistical and mathematical models.

This is known as algo trading (short for algorithmic trading). Once the programmed conditions are met, the system executes trades automatically and instantly — something no human can match in terms of speed or precision. Whether you’re a large institution or an individual trader, algo trading offers a smarter, faster way to participate in the market.

How to Get Started with Algo Trading in India

Starting with algo trading can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re bombarded with technical jargon and complex tools. But the truth is, you don’t need to be a coding genius to begin. With the right approach and a solid platform, getting started with automated stock trading in India is more doable than it seems.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to help you move from confusion to confident execution:

Step 1: Learn the Basics

You don’t need to be a coding expert or market wizard to start algo trading. But taking baby steps to grasp the fundamentals will set a strong foundation before you jump into executing trades.

Start by familiarising yourself with key market terms — like different order types, market indexes, margins, and asset classes. Understand essential risk management practices, and get comfortable with strategy testing concepts such as payoff curves and reading backtest results.

It’s totally fine to learn as you go, but a little preparation upfront will help you avoid feeling lost or overwhelmed once you’re in the thick of algo trading. 

Step 2: Explore & Compare Platforms

A quick search will reveal plenty of algo trading platforms in India that require no coding, like Share India’s Algo Trading Platform and others. The key is to take your time and compare their features carefully. Before diving in, you can also use demo accounts or free trials.

Look for a platform that matches your current skill level and trading goals. For beginners, platforms like Share India offer a user-friendly experience without the need for coding or technical jargon, making it easier to start your algo trading journey with confidence.

Step 3: Open an Algo Trading Account

After you’ve picked your platform, the next step is to open a trading account with a broker that works seamlessly with your algo trading platform. Share India, for instance, offers a dedicated algo trading platform that integrates effortlessly with its brokerage services. This means your trading account and algorithms work hand-in-hand, making execution smooth and efficient from the start. 

Step 4: Build Your First Strategy

Keep it simple and start small. You can either pick from pre-built strategies or create your own based on what makes sense to you—there’s no need to dive into complexities right away. Just ensure your trading account has enough funds to support your trades.

With Share India’s Algo Trading Platform, beginners get an easier way to explore and test strategies tailored to their level, helping them find the right starting point without feeling overwhelmed.

Step 5: Backtest Before Going Live

Before risking real money, test your strategy against historical market data. Backtesting shows how your algorithm would have performed in different market conditions, giving you valuable insights without any financial risk.

This step helps you identify strengths, spot weaknesses, and refine your approach using historical data before you hit the live market.

Step 6: Apply What You’ve Learned

Combine your foundational knowledge with insights from backtesting. Use payoff curves to find out the risk-reward potential of your strategy. Use this to fine-tune your strategy, making adjustments where needed. Get your setup ready for real-time trading with confidence, knowing you’ve done your homework.

Step 7: Go Live & Monitor Closely

Once you feel market-ready, deploy your algorithm in the live market. But remember, this isn’t a “set and forget” game. Keep a close eye on how your strategy performs against real market conditions. Identify where it excels and where it falls short.

With each trade, you’ll learn more, and those lessons will help you improve your next algo trading strategies and planning for better results.

Conclusion

From understanding the basics to deploying your first live strategy, every step builds toward smarter, faster, and more disciplined trading.

One of the biggest advantages of algorithmic trading is that it takes emotions out of the equation. No panic-buying, no fear-driven exits—just rules-based execution that follows your strategy with precision. This objectivity helps you stick to your trading plan, no matter what the market throws your way.

But an algo trading skill doesn’t stop at going live. Building a habit of backtesting and reviewing your trading performance regularly is crucial to grow those skills and understand what works for your goals. It sharpens your strategies, supports better decision-making, and contributes to more effective financial planning over time.

So start simple, stay consistent, and let algorithms—not emotions—guide your trades.